1996 Opel Astra vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (137 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 98 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1986 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 907 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
